Steve Bruce lines up double swoop but Michael Dawson deal is on the ropes

STRENGTHENING: Bruce wants to add to his squad for the Europa League campaign [GETTY]

But the Hull boss fears his £4m move for Michael Dawson will bite the dust after two weeks of talks with the Tottenham skipper.

Bruce is waiting to hear from Sheffield United and Dundee United whether they are ready to accept £2m apiece for centre-half Maguire and left-back Robertson.

The Tigers have tabled improved bids for Maguire, 21, and 20-year-old Robertson after their initial bids were rejected.

Bruce wants them signed before his players return from their Portuguese training base on Friday.

TARGET: Hull want Maguire [GETTY]

“It's stalemate with regard to Michael and, at the moment, we are probably as far away from a deal as we can be”

Steve Bruce

He is keen to get the pair integrated into his squad with the Tigers preparing for their historic first Europa League clash at the end of this month.

And Maguire has made it clear he wants to leave.

The England under-21 international said: "Playing in the Premier League and Europe will be a dream for me at this stage of my career.

"I have played nearly 170 games for Sheffield United - my hometown team - and the Blades fans know I have given my all in every match I have played."

Dawson, 30, agreed in principle to join Hull on a three-year deal a fortnight ago, but he qualifies for a testimonial next January after a decade of service at White Hart Lane and won't leave until he gets a pay-off from Spurs.

Bruce said: "It's stalemate with regard to Michael and, at the moment, we are probably as far away from a deal as we can be."